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Friday, 19 February 2016

Stand-Up Paddling - Fun for the entire family

We had the opportunity to try a new water sport, Stand-Up Paddle (SUP), at Constant Wind Sea Sports Centre which is located off Changi Coast Road.The kids said it was one of the best family activities we've ever tried.While I was arranging this sponsored session (thank you Constant Wind!) I showed them pictures and the 4 older girls were excited to give it a go.#5 is fearful of water sports and asked if he could stay at home. I told him he has to come along, but could sit at the side and watch until he felt comfortable enough to join in.Kate, being the gung ho little kid who wants to do everything the older jie jies do, quickly changed into her swim gear and waited at the door lest we left her behind.I was a little apprehensive of how it would pan out with 1 reluctant kid and 1 young kid who can't swim, but was thrilled that it turned out wonderfully.The good thing about this sport is that you can take it as easy or as competitive as you desire.

Preparing to race

On the long drive there, the deserted road leading to the seasports centre set the mood that we were about to go someplace out of the ordinary. The kids were feeling high anticipation coupled with slight apprehension.Upon arrival, we headed to the Pro-shop to register and sign the indemnity forms.Our instructor for the day was a nice young man, Raymond, and he pointed out the changing rooms and got us togged out in life vests.We slathered on sunblock before making our way to the edge of the facility where Raymond taught us how to paddle, turn, and most importantly how to fall off properly.We attached the velcro band to our ankle so that our board will not float away if we fall in.Our instructor held the board for us while we sat down, and we pushed off quite easily.It is similar to kayaking but instead of a boat, we sit on a flat board.

Setting off

Kate and #5 refused to go on the board and agreed to follow the boatman gor gor.His job was to ensure the safety of the group as he could speed to anyone who needed assistance. He was also the designated photographer and all these photos were taken by him. Thank you Bryon!

Kate's first time in a power boat

As Kate watched us drift further and further away, she started to get worried and told the boatman gor gor that she wanted mummy. He sped to me but she started crying because she was afraid of the loud engine sound.He was so accommodating that he turned off the engine to pacify her and paddled the 2 kids towards me.When they reached me, Kate said she was afraid that "Mummy will disappear" and was agreeable to come onto my board.

I'm getting the hang of it

As you can see, she was really stiff and apprehensive of the whole deal. Gradually, she warmed up to what was happening as we reassured her that none of us was going to vanish into the distance and she was happy being paddled around by #3.Acccording to Raymond, Kate is the youngest child they have ever had on SUP (previously they had a 4-year old), and he just had to add that he has never had so many kids in a family too :)#5 is by nature very cautious with new experiences, but after watching from the boat for about half an hour, he was ready for some action.

Steadying her little brother

He hopped over from the boat and it was easy for him to stand up as #1 was providing the balance. After he got the hang of it, he progressed to doing it on his own, nicked my board and paddled all the way back!So proud of him for overcoming his fear.

Once we got the hang of balancing and paddling, all of us managed to do it standing up and none fell into the water!The older girls even raced each other far out and had a good workout.What I really like is that with this flat board, we could lie flat and relax. (Yes, we all had different agendas). It feels wonderful to gaze up at the sky in the silence and stillness of the waters.Before we knew it, the 2 hours was up and we paddled back to shore.

Spaghetti Bolognese $16

We were ravenous after the session and had an early dinner at Stella, which serves western and local cuisine. The charming ambience more than made up for the average food, although we really liked their Fried Chicken Wings ($11.50).With planes flying overhead, the kids commented that it feels like we were on holiday, and it was such a bummer they had tests the next day and we couldn't hang around longer.Kate finished her meal before us and went to play at the little house and made new friends.

Simply idyllic

They are having a promotion from now until March 2016. Call 64455108 or email them at reception@constantwind.com to book your slot.We loved the whole experience so much that we will definitely be back during the school holidays!